Life is better with Trees

Why Tree Supports are My Go-To for 3D Printing

When it comes to 3D printing, one of the challenges every enthusiast faces is managing supports for complex prints. Traditional supports can be a hassle to remove and often leave behind imperfections that no matter how hard you try, you can’t hide that poor quality no matter what setup you have. That's where tree supports come in—they're my go-to choice for several compelling reasons and I have listed them below.

1. Gentle on Details

Tree supports are designed to branch out like a tree, with minimal contact points on the actual print. This means they provide the necessary support without compromising the intricate details of your design. Whether you're printing a delicate sculpture or a complex mechanical part, tree supports ensure that every nuance is preserved.

2. Easier Removal

One of the biggest advantages of tree supports is how easy they are to remove. Traditional supports often leave behind unsightly marks and require a lot of post-processing work, and let’s face it, no one wants to spend hours on post-processing. Tree supports, on the other hand, come off cleanly and with minimal effort, saving you time and a TON of frustration and potentially cut hands.

3. Material Efficiency

Tree supports are more material-efficient compared to traditional supports. Their branching structure means they use less filament, which not only reduces waste but also cuts down on costs. This is particularly beneficial for large prints where support material can add up quickly.

4. Improved Print Quality

By minimizing the contact area with the print, tree supports help improve the overall quality of the print. There are fewer scars and blemishes left behind, resulting in a smoother and more polished final product. This is especially important for prints that will be displayed or used in functional applications.

5. Versatility

Tree supports are versatile and can be used for a wide range of prints. Whether you're working on artistic models, functional parts, or prototypes, tree supports adapt well to various shapes and sizes. Their flexibility makes them an excellent choice for both simple and complex projects.

6. Better Stability

The branching structure of tree supports provides excellent stability during the printing process. They support overhangs and bridges effectively, reducing the risk of print failures. This stability is crucial for achieving consistent and reliable results, especially with challenging prints.

Conclusion

Ultimenly it is your choice as the end slicer user, however, from my perspective tree supports have become an indispensable part of my 3D printing toolkit. Their gentle touch, ease of removal, material efficiency, and overall impact on print quality make them the superior choice for most projects that need to look good and just work right without a lot of work on my part. If you haven't tried tree supports yet, I highly recommend giving them a go—you'll likely find them as indispensable as I do.

Happy printing!

Nathaniel Dayton

Founder

Dayton Additive Manufacturing LLC.